October 2017

CEREBRAL PALSY
Magnesium sulfate is commonly used antenatally in mothers at high risk of preterm delivery. This randomized controlled trial tested the effectiveness of antenatal magnesium sulfate administration to prevent cerebral palsy in neonates born at 24-31 weeks gestational age. The trial found that compared to placebo, magnesium sulfate treatment reduced the incidence of CP in preterm neonates at 2 years of age. While further study is necessary to streamline treatment recommendations and address effectiveness in preterm infants <24 weeks gestational age, magnesium sulfate is effective in reducing the incidence of cerebral palsy in preterm infants.